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Operators of St Kilda live music venue The Esplanade Hotel, fondly known as The Espy, have addressed today’s news that they will be closing up shop for “a few months” to undertake renovations, but have assured patrons that live music will remain a “central” part of the venue’s identity when it reopens.

“After 15 years at The Esplanade Hotel we are excited to announce that extensive renovations are about to begin, including the opening of new and exciting spaces, some of which have never before been open to the public,” reads a statement from the venue.

Adjustments will be made to The Espy’s “Gershwin Room”, where music trivia show Rockwiz is filmed, including sound and lighting upgrades, and the venue has promised to preserve the charm of the much loved room. Operators have also promised the introduction of new food and beverage spaces in the hotel.

“Improvements will strengthen and sustain our commitment to the music industry, with live music being maintained as a central part of the culture and identity of the venue,” continues the statement.

There’s also the prospect of the hotel opening up new spaces in the St Kilda venue, “some of which have never before been open to the public”.

The Espy is Australia’s longest-running venue with continuous live music and has been up for sale since February of last year. Operators will close its doors on Sunday, 17th May this year, and hope to “fast track” the renovations so as to re-open in time for summer 2015.

Read The Espy’s full statement below.

After 15 years at The Esplanade Hotel we are excited to announce that extensive renovations are about to begin,…